Psoriasis is a very common skin condition characterized by the rapid production
of skin cells, leading to a congestion of cells on the skin's surface. The normal
life cycle of skin cells is 28 days, but cells produced by psoriasis mature up to
a thousand times faster than those of healthy skin. Psoriasis can also cause an
inflammatory form of arthritis called psoriatic arthritis. More than 7 million North
Americans have psoriasis, with its onset generally in the late twenties. According
to The National Psoriasis Foundation, 56 million hours of productivity are lost
annually in the U.S. due to psoriasis. Treatment costs US$1.6 to $3.2 billion every
year.

SYMPTOMS
Raised patches of red with white flakes or scales appear on the torso, elbows, knees,
legs, back, arms and scalp. When it is in the scalp, psoriasis can promote hair
loss. In some people, the nails may become dull, pitted or ridged and may separate
from the nail bed. Psoriasis fluctuates between periods of inflammation and remission
and is categorized as mild, moderate or severe. If the skin becomes too badly damaged,
there can be fluid loss, bacterial infection and an inability to regulate temperature.
Approximately 400 people die every year from psoriasis. There are psychological
ramifications to psoriasis as well, as people may feel shame, embarrassment, social
rejection and anger due to a lack of understanding on the part of their peers. This
psychological aspect can significantly affect relationships.

Arthritis similar to rheumatoid arthritis, called psoriatic arthritis, is sometimes
present in those with psoriasis and it is very difficult to treat. There is pain,
morning stiffness, swelling, reduced range of motion, pitting of the nails, tiredness
and redness in the eye (conjunctivitis). In severe cases, it can lead to deformity
of the joints and spine. Difficult to diagnose in people with subtle symptoms, it
is believed that 10 to 30 percent of those with psoriasis will also develop psoriatic
arthritis. It usually appears between 30 and 50 years of age.

CAUSES
The cause of psoriasis is unknown, but two theories have emerged: it is an autoimmune
disorder, or it is caused by a bacterial "superantigen." Either way, there is a
glitch in the immune system that tells the body to produce more skin cells. The
immune system is often hyper-stimulated, promoting inflammatory cytokines in the
skin cells. It may also be that the immune system, after a viral or bacterial infection,
becomes primed to attack the skin.

Stress reduction is essential; 39 percent of those with psoriasis report stress
initiates the disease.

Eliminate caffeine, sugar and alcohol.

Do not take immune boosters that enhance macrophages as this can cause inflammation
in the skin.

Improve digestion. Studies have noted that those with psoriasis have lower levels
of hydrochloric acid. If you suspect you have low stomach acid, take one capsule
(600 mg) of hydrochloric acid before a large meal. If symptoms worsen, stop - you
do not have low stomach acid. If you feel the same or better, increase your dosage
by one at your next meal. Keep increasing dosage up to a maximum of seven capsules
or until you feel warmth in your stomach. If you feel warmth, cut back to your dosage
prior to the feeling. Use fewer capsules for smaller meals.

OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS

Get a little sun. Psoriasis seems to abate during the summer months and that is
thought to be a result of UV radiation.

Allergies and food sensitivities are common for those with psoriasis. Start a diet
diary and write down everything that you eat to see if there is any increase in
symptoms or their intensity after you eat certain foods. Ask for a referral to an
allergy specialist and get tested for possible triggers. Some allergies may only
be detected with the help of an ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) test.
Once you know what you are allergic to, avoid those allergens. Environmental allergies
should be tested as well.

Try natural alternatives to corticosteroid creams such as Celadrin cream or salves with capsaicin, licorice,
chamomile and evening primrose oil. Botanical Therapeutics makes a great shampoo
and conditioner for those with scalp psoriasis.